Collapse mechanisms of single curvature tensegrity systems

Tensegrity systems are composed of any given set of cables connected to a set of struts in which cables connectivity must be able to stabilize the configuration. In the present study, the collapse mechanisms of single curvature tensegrity systems was investigated by carrying out nonlinear collapse analyses using finite element method. Having verified the finite element modeling with the experimental results, several different collapse analyses have been undertaken in order to examine the instability behavior of the single curvature tensegrity systems. Consequently, the different collapse mechanisms of this type of tensegrity systems have been determined. In addition, the effects of the self-stress level, and the effects of the post-buckling response of the struts and the post-yield response of the cables have been investigated. Based on the obtained results, some important conclusions have been drawn regarding the instability behavior of these tensegrity systems.